Slaws

Broccoli Slaw with Bacon and Sunflower Seeds

Name: Broccoli Slaw with Bacon and Sunflower Seeds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups broccoli florets; 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/2 cup sunflower seeds; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

By Priya Nair · June 18, 2026 · Slaws

Prep20 min

Cook10 min

Total30 min

Serves6

Broccoli Slaw with Bacon and Sunflower Seeds — Crunchy Broccoli Slaw with Bacon

I still remember the first time I made a broccoli slaw from scratch. It was a game-changer for my summer picnics and barbecues. The combination of crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, and toasted sunflower seeds is a match made in heaven. In this recipe, I'll show you how to make a delicious broccoli slaw that's perfect for any occasion.

As a home cook, I've always been drawn to recipes that are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. This broccoli slaw recipe fits the bill, with only a few simple ingredients and a quick preparation time. Plus, it's a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a tasty and satisfying way.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish, add it to your favorite salads, or even use it as a topping for burgers and sandwiches. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you.

In this article, I'll take you through the step-by-step process of making a delicious broccoli slaw with bacon and sunflower seeds. From preparing the ingredients to serving the final dish, I'll provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to make this recipe a success.

So, let's get started and make some delicious broccoli slaw! Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The combination of crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, and toasted sunflower seeds is a match made in heaven.
This recipe is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner.
You can serve it as a side dish, add it to your favorite salads, or even use it as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.
The recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes.
It's a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a tasty and satisfying way.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making a great broccoli slaw is to balance the flavors and textures. The crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor, while the sunflower seeds provide a nice crunch. The broccoli, of course, is the star of the show, and it's essential to cook it just right so it's still crisp but not raw.

The dressing is also an important component of this recipe. I use a simple vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a bit of honey to balance out the flavors. The acidity in the vinegar helps to cut through the richness of the bacon, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the way the ingredients are prepared. I like to use a food processor to shred the broccoli, as it helps to create a uniform texture. The bacon is also cooked until crispy, which adds a nice texture contrast to the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a delicious broccoli slaw, the ingredients are crucial. You'll need a few simple ingredients, including broccoli, bacon, sunflower seeds, and a few pantry staples. Here's a list of what you'll need to get started.

Be sure to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients, as they will make a big difference in the final dish. For example, use thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture, and choose fresh broccoli that's free of brown spots and wilted leaves.

3 cups broccoli floretsUse fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. You can also use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as possible.
6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch piecesThick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, as it provides a nice texture contrast to the broccoli. You can also use regular bacon, but it may not be as crispy.
1/2 cup sunflower seedsToasted sunflower seeds add a nice crunch and flavor to the dish. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or use pre-toasted seeds.
1/4 cup apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar adds a nice tanginess to the dish, but you can also use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar if you prefer.
2 tbsp olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer.
1 tsp Dijon mustardDijon mustard adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish, but you can also use whole-grain mustard or honey mustard if you prefer.
1 tsp honeyHoney adds a touch of sweetness to the dish, but you can also use maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to tasteUse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a nice flavor to the dish, but you can also use garlic powder or omit it if you're not a fan of garlic.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a nice freshness to the dish, but you can also use dried parsley or omit it if you prefer.

Ingredients for Broccoli Slaw with Bacon and Sunflower Seeds

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlFood processorSkilletTongsWhiskMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Broccoli Slaw with Bacon and Sunflower Seeds

1
In a large bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
2
Add the minced garlic to the bowl and whisk until smooth.
3
In a food processor, shred the broccoli florets until they're evenly chopped.
4
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
5
Add the sunflower seeds to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
6
Add the shredded broccoli to the bowl with the dressing and toss until the broccoli is evenly coated.
7
Add the cooked bacon and sunflower seeds to the bowl and toss until well combined.
8
Season the slaw with salt and pepper to taste.
9
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10
Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the slaw and toss to combine.
11
Serve the slaw chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Expert Tips

Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
Don't overcook the bacon, as it can become tough and chewy.
Toast the sunflower seeds for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.
Let the slaw sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.
Use a food processor to shred the broccoli for a uniform texture.
Don't overdress the slaw, as it can become too soggy and overwhelming.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using frozen broccoli that's not thawed and drained properly.
Overcooking the bacon, which can make it tough and chewy.
Not toasting the sunflower seeds, which can make them bland and textureless.
Not letting the slaw sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving, which can prevent the flavors from melding.
Adding too much dressing, which can make the slaw soggy and overwhelming.
Not using fresh parsley, which can make the slaw look wilted and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced apple or pear to the slaw for a sweet and crunchy texture.
Use different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or white wine vinegar, for a unique flavor.
Add some chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, for a tangy and creamy flavor.
Add some diced jalapeno or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use different types of greens, such as kale or spinach, for a nutritious and flavorful slaw.
Add some cooked chicken or turkey for a protein-packed slaw.

What to Serve With Broccoli Slaw with Bacon and Sunflower Seeds

This broccoli slaw is perfect for serving as a side dish or adding to your favorite salads. You can also use it as a topping for burgers and sandwiches, or as a crunchy snack on its own.

Some of my favorite ways to serve this slaw include pairing it with grilled chicken or fish, or using it as a topping for a hearty bowl of soup. You can also serve it as a side dish for a picnic or barbecue, or as a healthy snack for a quick lunch on-the-go.

Grilled chicken or fishSaladsBurgers and sandwichesPicnics or barbecuesHealthy snackSide dish for a hearty bowl of soup

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This broccoli slaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply prepare the slaw as directed, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

If you want to freeze the slaw, you can do so by preparing it without the dressing, then freezing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Simply thaw the slaw overnight in the refrigerator, then dress it just before serving.

To reheat the slaw, simply let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. You can also reheat it in the microwave or oven, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become soggy and unappetizing.

When storing the slaw, be sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from becoming soggy or developing off flavors. You can also add a layer of plastic wrap or aluminum foil to the top of the container to prevent moisture from getting in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as possible. Frozen broccoli can be just as delicious as fresh, but it may require a bit more preparation.

How long can I store this slaw in the refrigerator?

You can store this slaw in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply prepare the slaw as directed, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I freeze this slaw?

Yes, you can freeze this slaw, but be sure to prepare it without the dressing first. Simply prepare the slaw as directed, then freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw the slaw overnight in the refrigerator, then dress it just before serving.

How do I reheat this slaw?

You can reheat this slaw by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. You can also reheat it in the microwave or oven, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become soggy and unappetizing.

Can I add other ingredients to this slaw?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to this slaw to suit your tastes. Some ideas include diced apple or pear, chopped nuts or seeds, or crumbled cheese. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations!

Is this slaw healthy?

Yes, this slaw is a healthy and nutritious option. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and the sunflower seeds provide a boost of healthy fats and protein. The dressing is also made with healthy ingredients, such as apple cider vinegar and olive oil.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this slaw ahead of time. Simply prepare the slaw as directed, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can also freeze the slaw for later use.

How do I prevent the slaw from becoming soggy?

To prevent the slaw from becoming soggy, be sure to add the dressing just before serving. You can also use a slaw with a higher acidity, such as one made with apple cider vinegar, to help preserve the crunch of the broccoli.

The Full Recipe

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